Cruise tips:

• Don't forget your valid passport.  For additional information, visit travel.state.gov
• Book your cruise in advance to get a good rate.
• Read over your cruise documents before you leave and clarify they are correct and in order.
• Attach luggage tags to all of your bags prior to departure. 
• Book shore excursions before your ship sails or on board as soon as possible.  Popular ones do sell out.
• Don't wait until the last minute to board the ship.
• If driving to your departure port, seek a hotel the offers "Park and Cruise".  Arrive the night before your departure date and leave your car at the hotel while on your cruise.  Most hotels that offer "Park and Cruise" also offer a shuttle bus to the departure port.  In some cases, this is cheaper than paying for parking at the port.
• Don't over pack.  Leave room for souvenirs.
• Learn your ships dress code, pack evening attire.  It is nice to dress up a few nights.
• Pack essentials in a backpack or carry-on bag.  Luggage may take a few hours to arrive to your stateroom.
• Safety drills are mandatory.  Take them seriously. 
• Enjoy the ships amenities.  Many offer a wide variety of shows, entertainment and fun activities.
• Exploring ports on your own is sometimes as rewarding as paying for a guided tour, but stay safe and always be aware of your surroundings.
• For safety reasons, most ships will not allow you to bring an iron on board.  Invest in a travel steamer or plan on using the ships laundry services that are available for a fee.
• Gratuity policies vary with cruise lines.  Some add the suggested gratuity to your onboard account on embarkation day while others provide envelopes near the end of the cruise for you to place cash in each and distribute to your service providers.  With some cruise lines, gratuities are already included in your cruise fare.  Learn your cruise line's policy so you will  know what to expect.
• Locate the closest fire extinguishers, exits and emergency call buttons near your stateroom.
• To minimize seasickness, book a cabin in the middle ship.
• Spend as much time on the deck to minimize seasickness.
• There are motion sickness medications, behind the ear patches as well as a sea-band wristband for seasickness. 
• Pay attention to the time to be back onboard.  You don't want to get left behind.  Guest who miss the departure time have to cover their own expenses to get to the next port.
• Bring a travel alarm clock.  Most staterooms do not provide one. 
• Read the ships daily newsletter.  It is informative about on board activities as well as information about the next port.
• Be adventurous, try a new or different food while cruising.
• Check out the fitness area on board.  The average weight gain for a week long cruise is said to be 10 pounds a person.
• Play it safe in port.  Only drink bottled water and beverages.  Avoid fresh fruits and vegetables. 
• Place wallet in front pocket of pants or interior pocket of jacket while touring ports.
• Secure your purse and other valuables while touring ports.
• Use the recommended shopping map for a port if the cruise line provides one.
• For day of disembark pack essentials in a backpack or carry-on bag.  Many cruise lines require you to pack your luggage the night before and place them outside your stateroom.  The disembarking is expedited this way.
• When using your room key to pay for extras, double check your statement every few days or so, it can add up quick.